As we near the first Room to Breathe Community Gathering on March 29th at Dance Place, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey that brought this film from a mere concept to the impactful community event it’s poised to become. This project, deeply personal yet universally relatable, explores the delicate balance between caring for ourselves and others, especially during challenging times.

After seven film festivals, including Docs’ own Community Stories and a win at Filmfest DC, we’re proud to bring the film back to a local audience for a series of screenings. The Alexandria Film Festival described our film’s story as: “The forced intimacy of the COVID-19 quarantine exposes the tensions and stress – and the joys and beauty – of family life for newlyweds Mary and Dave and their two children. A compellingly honest depiction of one D.C. family’s efforts at coping under extraordinary circumstances.” It’s a narrative that resonates deeply in today’s world, reminding us of the strength found in vulnerability and the power of community support.

I am profoundly grateful to Docs In Progress for their unwavering support throughout the creation of this film. Joining their Fellowship program in 2021 was a pivotal moment in my career and the development of “Room to Breathe.” The fellowship provided a collaborative environment that enriched my approach to documentary filmmaking. The insights gained and the relationships forged during this period have been invaluable, influencing not only the thematic depth of the film but also the way it was produced.

As a member of the Docs In Progress community, and a fiscally sponsored project able to accept tax-deductible donations, I’ve had the unique opportunity to share this journey with fellow filmmakers and documentary enthusiasts who are equally passionate about storytelling that inspires and educates. This support has been crucial in bringing “Room to Breathe” to life, allowing us to engage with topics that are both timely and timeless in an uncertain arts-funding environment.

We invite you to join us for the screening on March 29th, where “Room to Breathe” will not just be shown, but followed by a lively discussion on the themes of the film. It’s an opportunity to engage with the community, reflect on personal experiences, and inspire one another through shared dialogue.

See you at Dance Place on March 29th — let’s breathe new life into our stories together.

By Dave Haft
DC-based Cinematographer
Award-winning Director, Room to Breathe